Tangkilikin ang Sariling Atin: Assessing the Sustainability Practices of Cassava Cake Producers in Tayabas City

The research titled "Tangkilikin ang Sariling Atin: Aseessing the Sustainability Practices of Cassava Cake Producers in Tayabas City" examined the preparation, manufacturing process, and marketing aspects of cassava cake production from a sustainability perspective. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten participants, comprising farmers, manufacturers, and sellers, to gather their insights. The process, cooking teckniques, and packaging expose the artisanal methods employed by producers, shaping the distinct character of this traditional delicacy. The marketing aspect, involving pricing strategies and negotiation practices, unravels the economic dimensions and market dynamics influencing the sustainability of cassava cake production. Furthermore, the research identified challenges and issues faced by producers across the domains above, offering a nuanced understanding of obstacles that impact the continuity of this culinary tradition. By addressing these challenges, the study aims to pave the way for innovative materials and practices that can enhance the sustainability of cassava cake production in Tayabas City. Proposing the major output, which is the "Embodying the Tangkilik Program of Cassava Cake Producers Through the CIHTM Students, Community Extension Service," the said program will be a one-day program with two sessions. The morning session for the seminar and orientation titled "Unravelling the Opportunities Through Marketing Access Support" and "Value Adding Workshop" to further enhance their knowledge and skills and teach new techniques ways in enhancing the production of cassava cake, and the afternoon session will be the Activity Propper where Cultural exchange will happen because we would love to invite professional farmers. marketers and producers to teach the local farmers to be more apprehensive in sustaining the cassava cake,, through Community Extension Service. This research will contribute not only to the preservation of cultural heritage but also also to the economic resilience of local communities, providing valuable insights for policymakers, stakeholders, and producers seeking to navigate the delicate the balance between tradition and modernity in the evolving landscape of Tayabas City's cassava cake industry. By combining local as well as imported components for authentic flavors while controlling expenses, producers demonstrated a nuance approach to sustainability. Their resilience and inventiveness were evident despite obstacles such as sourcing ingredients, maintaining equipment, and dealing with fluctuations in the market. As they are crucial to qualitative research, descriptive methods help to provide an in-depth understanding of a subject and facilitate the analysis of meaning, perspectives, and reasons behind behaviors. Authenticity and efficiency were guaranteed through a combination of contemporary packaging and traditional cooking procedures. Producers used group efforts and established customer relations to manage pricing changes and competitions in the marketing domain. The study emphasized the opportunity for innovation and improvement while highlighting the difficult balance between tradition and practicality in Tayabas City's cassava cake business. it offered insightful information that will improve sustainable practices and support the sector's long-term viability.